Favourite Southern Downs gathering place close to completion

LOCALS were outraged when the Swanfels Playshed at Pioneer Park was suddenly demolished in January this year without consultation but the loud voice of the community was heard and a replacement structure is nearing completion.

In keeping with resident's wishes the new structure has been built to the original design and resident Jenn Greene-Galloway said she couldn't be happier with the results.

"I'm overwhelmingly happy with the outcome,” she said.

"The woodwork is second to none and looks absolutely beautiful.

"When you stand inside the new shed, there's an almost cathedral feel about it and the atmosphere just takes you back.”

The Swanfels Playshed was a favourite gathering point for people in the Yangan and Swanfels communities and Mrs Green-Galloway hopes it will be again.

"I was married in the old shed,” she said.

"So it was devastating when it was torn down, but the community rallied and the council listened.

The Swanfels Playshed is nearing completion, much to the delight of locals.Contributed

"It was a lovely surprise for me when I went up yesterday and saw the roof has been put on.

"I've been heading up there regularly to watch the progress, but we're really getting close now.”

Several items of paraphernalia that adorned the old shed will be put back in place at the completion of the build.

The Swanfels shelter is almost complete.Contributed

"There's a great centenary sign that will go back up, a sink, taps and little kitchen area and a branding post,” Mrs Greene-Galloway said.

"The post features the brands all a lot of the farms in the area and sat on a spindle so you could turn it to see them all.”

A community meeting will be held at the park this Sunday, December 17 at 2pm with regards to the preferred finishing of the playshed.